Networking Without Nerves

Strategies for Social Networking With Confidence

Tiffany Waddell Tate is a leadership coach & talent development consultant with deep experience helping individuals and companies reimagine the future of work through career & leadership coaching and learning & development initiatives for organizations and teams.  

Have you ever found yourself in a social networking situation, and you weren’t quite sure what to do? Perhaps you’ve wondered how to strike up a conversation when you don’t know anyone in the room. How do you stand out if large crowds exhaust you – but you want to make genuine connections in your community?

If this sounds like you, keep reading for actionable insights into how to manage networking scenarios with confidence.

Set realistic expectations. Before you walk in the door, mentally prepare for what’s next.  Is your goal to meet more people and expand your network in a new city? Are you hoping to connect with specific people who are involved in certain types of business or community ventures? Clarify your personal intention to set the tone for how you’ll show up in the space.

Find the Bar – but not for a Drink! Pro tip: it’s always a great idea to position yourself at a healthy distance from the bar area if there is one.  People often start there when they arrive at a networking event.  You can easily strike up a conversation as people turn around with a drink in their hand while you’re waiting your turn.  Remember: Alcohol is not required to have a good time at an event. If you don’t drink and find yourself looking for an alternative beverage option, try a little seltzer water with a splash of cranberry juice.  Works for me every time!

Be yourself. Networking events are great catalysts for new personal and professional relationships. Being yourself, and talking about more than just what you do for work allows you to be fully human while interacting with other humans, which leads to more genuine (and memorable!) conversations. 

Engage and be fully present. Have you ever experienced a conversation with someone that makes you feel like you’re the only person in the room? I love those people!  They really make you feel heard.  Maintaining a healthy amount of eye contact and leaning in or tilting toward the person speaking are common physical cues for fully engaging in conversation and being fully present. 

72 hour rule. After a networking event, you have about 72 hours to follow up with a person on LinkedIn or via email before everyone’s memory gets a little foggy.  Reference something that you discussed, and ask what the best way to stay connected might be moving forward.  

Remember: networking is a skill, just like any other.  It is a muscle that you develop over time through consistent practice.  While some may seem like natural-born networkers, they more than likely just have more experience with it.  The only way to build relationships is to get out there and do it. I’m rooting for you!